The Circle of Life is a programme of the Trust. Begun when the world was grappling with COVID, the Trust responded to the need of the hour … a need for holding and caring, a need for what was termed ‘psychological first aid’ by offering listening circles called The Circle of Life.

These Empathy circles began as grief circles when, as a society, we were confronted with unimaginable loss as well as isolation. The Circle of Life held space for people who had lost family and friends, for journalists covering the news, for volunteers organising hospital beds, oxygen supplies, food, transport and even funerals. People were stressed, in pain and in need for psychological and spiritual support. The Circle of Life became an anchor through those nightmarish years. 

After a brief hiatus, in 2025, The Circle of Life offered different communities a space to share their concerns and to offer and receive empathy as they faced challenges in their worlds, experienced violence and longed for safe spaces to voice their concerns, fears and pain. These conversations helped bring people together in an empathic space held with care and sensitivity.

The Circle of Life is inspired by Marshall Rosenberg and his teachings. His life’s work was dedicated to fostering compassion and empathy across divides.

The Circle of Life is not aligned to any particular ideology. Its purpose is to provide space for compassionate communication, to share lived experiences and to contribute to the building of a collaborative community, leading to harmony and peace in the world.